Objective: To study the indications of oocyte vitrification in women who undergo this intervention.
Design: Cross-sectional study.
Method: We collected the indications of oocyte vitrification in women who underwent, or started ovarian stimulation for, this intervention between May 2006 and December 31st 2013. Indications were subcategorized into six groups: no sperm available during IVF or ICSI treatment, planned gonadotoxic therapy, ovarian surgery, risk on premature ovarian insufficiency , previous gonadotoxic therapy, and anticipated gamete exhaustion.
Results: During the study period 298 women vitrified oocytes or started with ovarian stimulation for oocyte vitrification. The majority of the women (33%) vitrified oocytes because of anticipated gamete exhaustion. Planned gonadotoxic treatment was for 81 women (27%) the reason for oocyte vitrification.
Conclusion: With oocyte vitrification women are able to extend the time at which they can conceive. The future will tell whether the benefits of oocyte vitrification outweigh the risks and costs.